The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo state, BCOS Chapel has condemned in strong terms Saturday attack on the Corporation’s crew deployed to monitor the governorship and House of Assembly elections in Lagos State.
The BCOS news crew members comprising the Reporter Lekan Shobowale, the cameraman, Fólórunsó Abiala and the driver Ope Adegoke were assaulted and their equipment damaged by hoodlums reportedly led by a woman at Onigbongbo area of the state on Saturday.
In a statement signed by the BCOS NUJ Chairperson, Dupe Fehintola and Secretary, Olamiposi Ishola, the union observed that the assault was a misdirected one as the crew was carrying out its responsibility of monitoring and covering the election when the hoodlums pounced on the members.
The BCOS NUJ wonders how its members would be target of attacks adding that it was obvious the thugs had something to hide during the election which was supposed to be a transparent and open exercise.
While calling for a thorough investigation into the incident by the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Lagos State government and the Nigeria police with a view to preventing a recurrence, the BCOS NUJ says its members will continue to carry out of its surveillance role to restore values and standards in all areas and sectors.
It however commended some good samaritans and security operatives who quickly came to the rescue of the helpless BCOS news team and helped them to a safe distance.
